International exams: how to get through exam day
So, we have reached the finish line and discussed all the stages of preparation for international exams.
Was I scared on day X? Yes, all three times) Was I able to pull myself together? I think yes.
Sharing my lifehacks!
- Plan how you’ll get to the venue in advance, especially if the exam is in another city. When will you arrive, how will you travel, and where can you eat or wait? If the exam is in your own city, book a taxi the night before or plan where you’ll park. Bring snacks and water — bars and bananas, for example. Pack something warm in case the exam room is freezing. That happened to me during the TEF: my fingers were so cold I could barely hold my pen. And it was September! When you’re hungry and cold, your brain is busy trying to rescue you rather than finding an answer to the examiner’s question…
- Work your ass off. If you have been working hard every day for 2-3 months and are sure that you know ALL the material perfectly, then in the morning before the exam you can “clear” your head and not read anything. But according to the law of meanness, we often come across something that we have learned superficially. Therefore, I prefer to repeat the expressions again, see how complex words are written, and leaf through the notes with the rules. And enter the office knowing that I did everything in my power.
- Examiners are not enemies or a terrible threat. They are living people with their own fears, weaknesses, and feelings. I remember when I was already receiving the certificate, the examiner admitted to me: “I was already so tired at the end of your exam that it seems that I myself said nonsense...”
- Many, while waiting their turn, begin to actively walk along the corridor, emotionally discussing something with others. Perhaps this helps someone cope with stress. But for me personally, on the contrary, it’s closer to concentrate, withdraw into yourself and save energy “for battle.”
The exam will not decide your fate once and for all. Even if you don't pass as expected. This is experience and for some reason it is necessary.
For what? You will find out the answer later. My first failed attempt at French, for example, gave me two very important introductions.
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International exams: where to start preparing